"Brad's a good, young player but he's not Kerry, because Kerry Joseph is special," said the Argos' third-string quarterback who served as Joseph's backup with the Renegades in 2003.

"When Kerry Joseph is healthy, he's one of the top quarterbacks in this league," said Miller. "Another year in the system, and he's going to put up some big numbers."

After an outstanding rookie season in 2003, Joseph took a step back during an injury-riddled 2004.

He suffered a foot injury in Week 5 and missed three games, but was never able to completely regain the form that made him a star during his rookie campaign.

Joseph suffered a chest injury early in the team's home game against Saskatchewan in early October and missed the final three games.

"I was disappointed for him," said Miller. "We worked out together in the off season in New Orleans. That guy put in so much time training, getting ready for the season."

"Football is a sport where any slight little thing can be major," he added. "Kerry took a shot and it just compounded throughout the year."

Both Miller and Joseph experienced CFL milestones during a game at Frank Clair Stadium in July of 2003 against the Argos -- Joseph making his first league start and Miller making his first appearance when Joseph left temporarily due to injury.

But in January, with Darnell Kennedy already in the Renegades QB stable and 2003 Heisman runner-up Brad Banks close to being signed, Miller was shipped to Calgary in that blockbuster deal that included linebacker John Grace and O-lineman Seth Dittman going to the Stampeders.

Miller thought it would be a great opportunity, but was cut during camp.

"I got totally blindsided. I had no idea they were even thinking about cutting me," he said.

He returned to his native Mississippi and worked as a coach at a Division III college, but returned to Canada when the Argos offered him a spot when Damon Allen was injured in August.

Now he's back in Ottawa with a chance to win a Grey Cup on the field where his CFL career began.

"I'm enjoying it. I think I'm the tour guide on the team," said Miller. "The guys are always asking me where's a good place to do this and a good place to do that. I guess my role is more important off the field."